Tax Season Takes a Thrilling Turn: A Review of The Accountant 2
As Halloween ushers in a wave of spine-chilling horror films and Christmas floods the screen with heartwarming classics, the cinematic landscape around Tax Day, surprisingly, remains rather barren. But fear not, for "The Accountant 2," directed by Gavin O’Connor and featuring the inimitable Ben Affleck, steps up to the plate. This sequel to the 2016 original may not have left critics or audiences clamoring for more, yet in the rush for sequels that have successfully captured audience attention, it carries a unique burden—the chance to overwrite the narrative of its predecessor.
A Refreshing (If Uncommon) Accounting
In a world where film franchises are often built upon great expectations, "The Accountant 2" cleverly sidesteps the pitfalls of high hopes. Instead, it aims to simply balance the books of its predecessor—at least in spirit. The film reintroduces us to Christian Wolff, played by Affleck, a meticulous CPA whose exceptional powers of deduction are magnified by his autism. This detail, while integral to his character, sometimes feels tangential in a plot saturated with violence and conventional action.
The Characterization Behind the Numbers
In this sequel, we find Wolff grappling with his past as a financial advisor to criminal enterprises, now transformed into an unlikely blend of vigilante hero and ethical accountant. One moment showcases the film’s often darkly humorous approach, as Wolff uncovers a nefarious human trafficking scheme by analyzing suspicious pizza box expenses. "Keep those receipts!" becomes a whimsical refrain, illustrating how this film fuses the mundane with the absurd.
While Affleck’s portrayal is compelling, he taps into a more reserved performance reminiscent of a calculating android rather than the charismatic roles we are accustomed to. It’s a peculiar fit, reminiscent of his earlier performances in films like "Good Will Hunting," where emotional depth illuminated his work. However, his portrayal here resonates with a certain pleasure as he channels the character’s idiosyncrasies.
The Dynamic Duo: Brothers in Action
Among the various dynamics, the most notable is the bond between Wolff and his more boisterous sibling, Braxton, played by Jon Bernthal. Their contrasting personas—a stern, methodical accountant paired with a loose-cannon brother who embodies chaotic energy—create a foundation for some riveting action sequences. However, it takes a considerable amount of time to reach the heart of their dynamic, as the script by Bill Dubuque meanders through clunky exposition and disjointed scenes before it connects the brothers.
An Unpredictable Narrative Trail
The film opens with a complex scene involving J.K. Simmons as retired FBI financial crimes chief Raymond King, setting the stage for an over-arching narrative involving family and crime. Unfortunately, the initial complexity is marred by a somewhat disorganized first act, filled with superfluous diversions that detract from the pacing needed to keep viewers engaged.
As Wolff navigates the story, one can’t help but notice the awkward setups, such as the comedic yet aimless speed dating montage. However, the film begins to find its rhythm once the brothers unite, launching "The Accountant 2" into a quirky yet enjoyable venture.
Weaving Timely Themes
For all its absurdity, "The Accountant 2" engages with contemporary issues in a surprisingly relevant manner. By spotlighting a family of Central American migrants, it touches upon themes resonating with current socio-political climates, particularly amidst ongoing discussions about immigration and audit practices. Many may find this film a cathartic viewing experience, especially in light of recent IRS policies that have drawn public scrutiny.
Conclusion: A Mixed Ledger
In summary, "The Accountant 2," while not a cinematic masterpiece, finds value in its ability to flourish against the backdrop of expectations set by its predecessor. With a cast led by Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal, it offers flashes of insight and moments of genuine entertainment, tempered by a structural imbalance. It achieves greater narrative clarity towards the end, leading viewers through its labyrinthine plot.
Set to hit theaters on Thursday, this sequel is rated R for strong violence and pervasive language, with a running time of 125 minutes. As a cinematic experience, it earns a solid two and a half stars out of four, marking it as an intriguing, if imperfect, entry into the world of action thrillers.
For more film reviews and industry updates, check out AP News and keep an eye on the box office this Tax Day season.
